The first Potomac Bible Institute course being offered will be Bible Study Methods and Rules of Interpretation (see attachment). The specific time and location for the class is still to be determined upon registrations.

We are asking that you do your best to get the word out between now and then and encourage interested students to register for the first course in January. Promotional information and flyers have been sent to PBA Churches. The first night of class, which will be an introductory/overview/orientation session is free.

The Church Support Team has assisted several PBA Churches with various requests that have arisen over the past year, providing materials for education needs, training materials for church ministries and community outreach needs.

One highlight this past year has been the achievement of the Potomac Bible Institute. In January of 2017, after much preparation, the PBA started up the Potomac Bible Institute. Classes meet regularly on Tuesday evenings in two locations: The Church @ St. Charles and Emmanuel Church. Two courses have been completed: “Bible Study Methods and Rules of Interpretation” and “Old Testament Survey.” We have averaged about 20 students for the first two courses between both locations. Currently we are offering our third course, “New Testament Survey,” and have 24 students enrolled.

We have also conducted two Teacher Training Workshop events for the PBI in our association. We now have eight pastors in our association trained to teach in the school: Fred Caudle, Steve Fehrman, Dan Moore, Mike Spencer, Doug White, Bob Maher, Chris McCombs and Keith Corrick. We also trained Pastor Julio Espinoza from Los Mochis, Sinaloa Mexico, and three pastors from the Prince Georges Association.

Keith Corrick will be leading a Teacher Training Workshop on November 11 at Greater Love Church in Washington D.C. Five pastors will be trained to begin a school in N.E. Washington D.C.

The basic concept of the BTCP and the BTCL program is to provide biblical training for pastors and church leaders (present and future) who have not earned a theological degree through a non-formal local setting and mentoring relationship. The emphasis is on assimilation of biblical principles, concepts, truths, and personal spiritual growth. Classes are taught by trained instructors who have experience serving in local churches, Bible colleges, Seminaries and/or on the mission field.

The curriculum covers ten courses taught in 520 hours of classroom time over a 2-to-3 year period and provides the equivalent of a two-year Bible college education. There are no tests or lengthy paper requirements, but reading both the course text and the assigned Scripture is required of all students. Occasionally, other assignments may be given at the instructor's discretion. The cost is only $75 per course, which includes the course text. Another positive feature of the program is that it can be used on the mission field to train pastors and leaders.

For More Information Contact Church Support Team Leader, Fred Caudle at

240-882-0207 or email at FredCaudle@fbcstcharles.com Register online at http://www.potomacbaptist.net/